Fans stand and cheer for author J.K. Rowling

An employee looks at a copy of the "The Casual Vacancy" by author J.K. Rowling at a book store in London last month. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

NEW YORK — Just the mention of her name, J.K. Rowling, had the audience screaming and on its feet.

The "Harry Potter" author spoke before a capacity crowd Tuesday night at Manhattan's Lincoln Center in her sole U.S. public appearance to promote her first novel for grownups, "The Casual Vacancy."

Dressed in a dark skirt and dark sweater blouse, Rowling chatted with fellow author Ann Patchett, read briefly from her new book and also responded to pre-selected questions from fans. Rowling spoke before some 2,500 people, mostly women, gathered under the high, golden ceiling of the David H. Koch Auditorium.

The conversation was for adults — Rowling even used the S-word — but she is returning to children's stories. Just don't expect any board books for toddlers — or a new Potter.